The Temptations – He Who Picks a Rose

The Temptations – He Who Picks a Rose: A Soulful Exploration of Love’s Duality

In the tapestry of Motown’s greatest hits, The Temptations hold a prominent place. Renowned for their smooth vocals, intricate harmonies, and captivating stage presence, they delivered a sound that transcended generations. Among their vast repertoire, nestled between grooving dance numbers and heart-wrenching ballads, lies a gem that delves into the complexities of love: He Who Picks a Rose.

Released in 1968 on the album The Temptations Wish It Would Rain, “He Who Picks a Rose” marked a departure from the group’s usual uptempo style. Instead, it embraced a mid-tempo groove, allowing space for David Ruffin’s smooth baritone vocals to take center stage. The song, while seemingly simple on the surface, offers a profound reflection on the duality of love – the joy it brings intertwined with the inevitable challenges.

The lyrics, penned by Eddie Holland, Norman Whitfield, and Earl Smokey Robinson, paint a vivid metaphor. Love is likened to a beautiful rose, a symbol of desire and beauty. However, the song reminds us that with this beauty comes thorns, representing the potential for heartache and disappointment. The opening lines establish this central theme:

“To me the prettiest in the world, and that goes double for a girl ‘Cause she’s like no other flower in the world, remember, they’re not perfect, you see”

He Who Picks a Rose doesn’t shy away from the realities of relationships. It acknowledges that even the most captivating love interests can have flaws, and enduring love requires acceptance of these imperfections. The chorus, delivered with a soulful urgency by David Ruffin, emphasizes this message:

Chorus

A rose is a beautiful flower

I mean the prettiest in the world

And that goes double, double for a girl

‘Cause she’s like no other flower in the world

Remember, they that first take the sweet

But you got to take the bitter with sweet

So remember, he who picks a rose

Must accept the thorns it bear, yeah, yeah

Talking about the good and the bad in a woman

He Who Picks a Rose resonated deeply with listeners, becoming a favorite among fans. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the complexities of love in a relatable and honest way. The song reminds us that true love involves not just cherishing the beauty, but also accepting the inevitable challenges that arise along the way. The Temptations’ soulful delivery and the thoughtful lyrics elevate this song beyond a mere pop tune, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.

See More: The Temptations – Standing on the Top 

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Here are some additional details about the song:

• The song was written by Eddie Holland, Norman Whitfield, and Earl Smokey Robinson
• It was released in 1968 on the album The Temptations Wish It Would Rain
• The song reached number 63 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart
• “He Who Picks a Rose” has been covered by numerous artists, including The Spinners and The Stylistics.